Imagine the giant switches that control electricity in cities. Currently, they use a powerful gas that is terrible for the planet—thousands of times worse than car exhaust. This project replaces that toxic gas with simple dry air, making the equipment safe and easy to dispose of without harming the earth.
Utility providers face strict EU bans on SF6 gas starting in 2026 due to its extreme global warming potential. Current alternatives are either too large for cities or too specialized for general use.
A medium voltage gas insulated switchgear (GIS) rated at 40.5kV that uses dry air instead of SF6 gas.
If you are a utility provider dealing with the upcoming 2026 ban on SF6 GIS for 24kV and 36kV systems — this project developed a dry air switchgear that eliminates the need for hazardous gas and costly recycling.
If you are a grid operator dealing with limited space in urban areas where air insulated switchgear is too large — this project developed a compact GIS using dry air that fits urban demands without the environmental risk of SF6.
If you are a plant manager dealing with the high cost and complexity of SF6 end-of-life recycling — this project developed a 40.5kV rated switchgear that uses pure air, removing the need for specialized hazardous waste processes.
Based on available project data, specific pricing is not provided, but it is noted that pure air eliminates the high costs associated with SF6 recycling and production.
The project aims to develop a GIS with a rated voltage of 40.5kV and establish partnerships with end-users for pilot projects to demonstrate reliability.
Based on available project data, there is no specific mention of patents or licensing terms, though the technology is being developed by Nuventura GmbH.
European utility providers will be banned from using SF6 GIS starting in 2026 for 24kV and 36kV, and by 2030 for higher ranges.
The project period runs from 2022-11-01 to 2025-10-31, aligning with the 2026 regulatory deadlines.
The project is led by a single German SME, Nuventura GmbH, which represents 100% of the consortium. This lean structure indicates a highly focused industrial development effort where the coordinator is directly responsible for the technical design and commercialization of the 40.5kV switchgear.
Contact Nuventura GmbH in Germany for pilot project opportunities.
Contact us to connect with Nuventura for SF6-free grid upgrades.
